My proposal seems to fit two of the "areas of inquiry" equally well; what should I do?
Although we do ask that you identify a "Primary Focus Area" on our proposal cover sheet, it is fine if your proposal overlaps more than one of the four focus areas. In your initial proposal, please include an explanation of how it fits within each focus area identified.
Are my chances of funding going to differ depending on which focus area I apply in?
No, one focus areas is not more competitive than the others.
Is it possible to speak to a Program Director about my project before sending in the initial proposal?
Due to the number of inquiries and proposals we receive, we generally prefer that you submit your materials first, and if a Program Director needs additional information you will be contacted. The exception to this practise is if you anticipate your proposed budget exceeding $500,000. Proposals exceeding $500,000 in direct costs require particularly close scrutiny and are generally developed in close consultation with Spencer staff. Those aiming to seek a grant of this size are encouraged to arrange a conversation with staff prior to submitting a proposal.
Do you have to be affiliated with an institution in the United States to apply for funding?
No, we accept proposals from researchers and institutions both inside and outside the United States.
What is the funding range of a research grant award?
Research grants can range from less than $5,000 to slightly more than $400,000.
How many research grants does the Foundation award each year?
The Foundation does not have a set number of grants it will make each year. Please see the Annual Reports for listings of research grants awarded.
How competitive is the process?
Each year the Foundation receives several hundred initial proposals. Between ten and twenty percent of those are funded. A large number of the initial proposals we receive are out of program, or request funds for program development and evaluation. Other reasons that proposals may be declined include the lack of clear research questions or conceptual framework, underspecified research methodologies, or poor fit with the Foundation's mission.
Why doesn't the Spencer Foundation fund program evaluations?
In order for a study on a specific program to be considered by the Foundation, it has to demonstrate its contribution to a broader research literature and make a clear case for the generalizability of the findings, beyond the particular program being evaluated. The Spencer Foundation will consider studies that include a program evaluation component if they address these broader research requirements.
Does Spencer support research other than K-12?
Yes, the Foundation funds projects that span the life course (i.e., from early childhood to adult learning).
Does the Foundation provide scholarships?
No, the Foundation does not award scholarships. However, the Spencer Dissertation Fellowships are awarded to advanced doctoral students and support the final year of dissertation writing. Please reference the Fellowship Awards page for further information.